Martinez: We tried to win. You have to respect Colombia

tin coach of the Portuguese national team Roberto Martinez commented in the match of the group stage of the World Cup-2026 against Colombia (0:0). "A very difficult match. We expected it. Weather conditions, an opponent from South America who breaks the game into separate episodes, one-on-one duels. It was a very valuable test to try to direct the game in the direction we wanted. We forced the attacks too much. We needed to control the ball, we needed to make better use of the talent of footballers like Vitinha at the stage of developing attacks. But it was a very valuable test. We showed character, fought not to miss. It's nice to see Dioga Kosta at this level. This is a match that helps us understand where we need to add. Now a completely different World Cup begins and we can analyze the three matches and prepare the team for the next game. We tried to win. You have to respect Colombia - they are a very good team. It was important for us to give football players playing time, we have already used 21 players. The World Cup brings matches that don't play out the way you expect, so you have to be ready to adapt," Record quotes Martinez as saying. Available for viewing on media.